Have you ever been in that sad moment crooning your favourite music, joining a call, or going into the depths of a podcast and putting on AirPods but not connecting? If not addressed, it is an issue that can ruin your day and have you weeping for a fix. Whether you are a long-time AirPods user or new to the wireless earbud scene, connection issues can affect all of us.
Let’s find out why your AirPods aren’t connecting and fix them in the full version of this blog post. Everything you need to know, from simple repairs to complex remedies, will keep your AirPods running smoothly again.
At the end of this guide, you will be equipped to take on any AirPods connectivity problem like a pro. So, let’s dive in
What Are the Troubleshooting Steps for AirPods Connectivity Issues?
Sometimes, simply resetting the connection is all it takes when your AirPods won’t connect. The following is a guide to getting you started:
1. Check Battery Levels
- Just put the AirPods in there and open that lid next to your iPhone (or any iPad); the current battery levels will display on the screen.
- Ensure your AirPods and the charging case have some charge left.
2. Restart Devices
- How To Fix AirPods Not Connecting to a Mac Open your AirPod case, close the lid and wait, like, 15 seconds then put them back on.
- Turn your device off and on (on your iPhone, iPad, or any other paired equipment). Sometimes, that can refresh the connection.
3. Re-establish Connection
- pen settings of the Bluetooth on your device.
- Put the AirPods in the case and open the lid.
- Hold down the setup button on the back of the case until you see a white flash.
- Reconnect AirPods: reconnect by selecting your already-paired AirPods from the list of devices in Bluetooth settings.
Forget and Reconnect
- Simply go to Bluetooth settings and choose your AirPods from the list of connected devices.
- Select the “i” icon, which is located next to your AirPods, and then tap forget this device.
- Simply follow the steps mentioned above to reconnect.
How to Resolve Software and Firmware Issues Affecting AirPods?
Some of the time, software and firmware issues can be blamed for connectivity problems with your AirPods. By updating your devices, preventative measures can be taken to avoid and correct errors like these. How to Fix Software and Firmware Issues
1. Update your iOS or MacOS device:
- If you are on an iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app> General and then Software Update.
- Apple Menu > System Preferences… > Software Update.
- If there is an update, navigate to the on-screen instructions to proceed with downloading and installing it. Updating your device will maintain compatibility with the most recent AirPods firmware.
2. Check and Update AirPods Firmware
- Accessing AirPods firmware is easiest if you have your device’s power connected. The update will automatically install when they are charging and paired up with an iPhone or iPad.
- Have your AirPods in the charging case near your iOS device that is signed into iCloud.
- Check Firmware Version:
- Pair your AirPods with either an iPhone or iPad.
- To check: Open Settings > Bluetooth, press the “i” next to your AirPods and scroll down to see the firmware version.
- Check this version against what Apple has on their support website.
3. Compatibility Check
- Check the compatibility of your AirPods model with the device
- Ancient devices or older operating systems may not support them, and therefore, old AirPods firmware features will be lost on such hardware.
4. Restart After Updates
- Restart iOS or macOS devices again after updating both the AirPods firmware and your iOS (or, perhaps, in some cases, even for a Mac user) device.
- Call Install Before Procedure The benefit of this is that all updates have been installed in full and quite likely, the remaining issues should be at least discovered here.
5. Reset Network Settings (iOS Devices Only)
- Network Reset:
- Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
- This will wipe out settings for all networks, such as Wi-Fi passwords, VPNs, and APNs. This can help fix Bluetooth issues.
How can you resolve AirPods connectivity issues caused by interference and range limitations?
Connectivity issues with your AirPods can also arise due to interference from other devices and obstructions to the Bluetooth signal. To address the problems, you need to:
1. Bluetooth Interference
- Turn Off Other Bluetooth Devices:
- Determine other Bluetooth devices within reach and switch them off immediately. These include speakers, headphones, and some home appliances.
- Minimize Wi-Fi Interference:
- Note that other wireless devices on a similar frequency band, such as 2.4 GHz, can also obstruct Bluetooth signals.
- Due to this, whenever possible, the Wi-Fi router should have a band of 5 GHz and remain away from the device and the AirPods.
2. Reduce Physical Obstacles
- Maintain Line of Sight:
- The clearest connection is established when there is no obstruction between the connected device and the AirPods.
- Walls, furniture, and any large metal object limit the Bluetooth signal, affecting its quality.
- Optimal Positioning:
- Keeping the connected device close to the AirPods will stabilize the connection. One of the ways to go about this is by placing it in your pocket on the same side as the one containing the AirPods.
3. Optimal Range
- Effective Range:
- Make sure that you are within the effective range of your AirPods (about 10 meters [30 feet] from the connected device).
- If you go far enough away from this range, then the connectivity starts going bad or it will not connect at all.
- Minimize Movement:
- Highly mobile environments can interfere with the Bluetooth signal.
- If you have since chosen to move and experienced connectivity issues, keep near one of the stable areas in case this helps your connection
4. Wireless Settings Adjustment
- Disable other wireless features:
- If you suspect any other wireless features, including WiFi or hotspots, it is recommended to deactivate them.
- By toggling Wi-Fi on your device (Settings > Wi-Fi), you can avoid any conflict related to connectivity and test the AirPods fully.
- Bluetooth Resets:
- Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your device.
- iOS: Settings > Bluetooth (turn off and on again)
5. Use AirPods Pro Noise Control Features
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC):
- ANC on AirPods Pro can also help those who are a bit more focused listeners by minimizing outside noise that might act as a background disturbance in the audio.
- Control Center: Long-press the volume slider (then you can switch between noise control modes, etc.)
- Transparency Mode:
- Transparency mode is for when you need to be aware of your surroundings, allowing external sounds in while still playing music.
How can you identify and fix hardware issues with AirPods?
If very basic or standard troubleshooting does not work on this, there might be some hardware issues involved. Work on hardware issues & solutions.
1. Inspect for Physical Damage
- AirPods Inspection:
- Conduct a close visual inspection of your AirPods for any cracks, dents, or physical damage.
- Inspect the speaker mesh and microphone holes for obstructions or foreign materials.
- Charging Case Inspection:
- Check if the charging case is broken or worn, especially on its hinge and charging port.
- Ensure that the charging contacts inside the case are not dirty or corroded.
2. Clean Your AirPods and Charging Case
- Cleaning Tips:
- Clean the outer surface of the AirPods and case with a cloth bed balcony and dry, lint-free cloth.
- If you do have debris that will not leave the speaker mesh, use a dry cotton swab or an ultra-soft bristled brush.
- Charging Contacts:
- Liquids should be avoided, as moisture will make its way to elements inside the parts.
3. Check Charging and Battery Health
- Battery Status:
- Put them in the case and verify that they are charging by checking the status light on your AirPods.
- There’s also a status light as well, which should turn amber while charging and green when fully charged.
- Case Charging:
- The same is true for the charging contacts on both your AirPods and their case.
- If they look dirty, use a soft brush to gently clean the contacts of dirt.
4. Reset and Reconnect
- Reset AirPods:
- Place your AirPods in the case (and close that sh*t)
- Close the lid and leave it for 30 seconds.
- Hold the setup button on the back of the case until you see the amber light flash white.
- Go to your Bluetooth settings and pair them again with your device.
- Reconnect to Devices:
- After this, go ahead and reconnect your AirPods to your device following the basic troubleshooting steps after a reset.
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5. Test with Different Devices
- Multiple Devices:
- Check to see if the AirPods still disconnect from another device (e.g. an iPad or Mac) this lets you know whether it is isolated to one device
- Try the AirPods on other devices; if they operate normally, then there is no issue with them.
6. Replacement and Repair
- Apple Support:
- Reboot the device and clean it to see if this resolves your issue; otherwise, there likely is a hardware problem that you can try returning at an Apple Store or contacting Apple support for further help.
- Schedule a repair through the Apple Support website or Apple Support App.
- AppleCare+:
- If you have AppleCare+ for your AirPods, you may be eligible for a replacement or repair at a reduced cost.
- Check your coverage and benefits by logging into your Apple account.
Advanced Troubleshooting Tips
- If your AirPods are still under warranty with AppleCare+, you may be entitled to a replacement or repair for a minimal fee.
- To view your coverage and benefits, sign in with your Apple ID.
1. Reset AirPods to Factory Settings
- How to Reset:
- Charge the AirPods (put them in the charging case and close it.)
- Allow for a 30-second wait, and then open the cover.
- Hold the reset button on the back of the case for a few seconds until you see an amber light followed by white.
- If so, simply reconnect in your Bluetooth settings from the device on which you want to use them.
2. Reset Network Settings on iOS Devices
- Network Reset:
- Settings: General; Reset; Reset Network Settings
- If the resource gets stuck, then simply input your passcode if asked and hit that reset button.
- A factory reset will delete all the network settings, including WiFi passwords, VPN settings, etc., and can help solve Bluetooth connectivity issues.
3. Bluetooth Troubleshooting on Mac
- Reset Bluetooth Module:
- Press down the Shift + Option and press the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar.
- Choose Debug > Reset the Bluetooth module.
- Restart your Mac and then try reconnecting to remember AirPods
4. Update Device Firmware and Software
- Ensure Latest Updates:
- Look for any software updates available on your iOS or macOS device and install those.
- AirPods will update automatically, but make sure they’re in their charging case, powered on and near your iOS device when updates are being carried out.
5. Test with Different Devices
- Cross-Device Testing:
- Test the AirPods on other devices (another iPhone, iPad or Mac)
- If AirPods work with devices other than the original device, there may be a problem with Bluetooth settings or the hardware of your first device.
- Open a Bluetooth scanner app to detect local sources that could be interfering with the connection.
- Eliminate or put intervening systems offline to increase connectivity.
6. Use a Bluetooth Scanner App
- Identify Interference:
- Identify nearby devices that might be causing interference with the use of a Bluetooth scanner app.
- Either move or get rid of the offending devices to assist in those connection improvements.
7. Contact Apple Support
- Professional Assistance:
- If, after the completion of all these steps your AirPods will not connect, maybe it’s time to contact Apple Support.
- Audiobooks in Chapters (whatever that is now): Busted case? Repair or replace AirPods if you’re under warranty or AppleCare+.
FAQ:
1. So why do my AirPods not connect with my iPhone?
Solution: Put your AirPods and iPhone in the charging case, charge them to 100% battery AND use the latest software updates.The general way to handle this is to reboot both devices then go back into Bluetooth settings and reconnect. If problems continue, try restarting your AirPods as well as forgetting/connecting them to your iPhone.
2. AirPods Firmware Update: How to Fix.Data Grid View Column?
The AirPods automatically receive firmware updates when they are connected to an iOS device and the iPhone is charging. AirPods will have to be near an iPhone or iPad in their case and powered on to update
3.How to Fix AirPods Disconnecting?
Make sure that no other device is nearby and using the same Bluetooth connection; the ideal distance to take full advantage of both devices: is 10 meters (30 feet); avoid physical obstacles. Restart your device and AirPods, and make sure everything is running the latest software.
4. How do I clean my AirPods so they work better and connect again?
Gently wipe the outer surface of each AirPod with a soft, dry lint-free cloth. Clean speaker mesh and charging contacts with a dry cotton cloth, feather or soft very bristled brush. Avoid using liquids.
5. What if none of the troubleshooting steps work?
Apple recommends that if the problem with your iTunes account relates to basic or advanced troubleshooting steps, you can seek assistance from Apple Support. In case your AirPods have some hardware problems, you may consider getting repairs or replacing them. Find out what your repair options are under all warranty or AppleCare+ coverage.